Basic Cable Knitting Pattern

Instructions

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1. 1Stitch multiple and cast onThis pattern uses a multiple of 8 sts + 2, plus one edge stitch at each side: each repeat is p2 + k6, and the final p2 centres the pattern. For the swatch, cast on 28 sts (8 x 3 + 2 + 2 edge sts) with 5 mm needles. Knit the edge stitches on every row.
2. 2Pattern rows (8-row repeat)Row 1 (RS): k1, *p2, k6; rep from * 3 times, p2, k1. (28 sts) Row 2 (WS): k1, *k2, p6; rep from * 3 times, k2, k1. Row 3: as Row 1. Row 4: as Row 2. Row 5 (cable row): k1, *p2, C6F; rep from * 3 times, p2, k1. Row 6: as Row 2. Row 7: as Row 1. Row 8: as Row 2.
3. 3Crossing the cableOn row 5, after the p2, slip the next 3 sts purlwise onto the cable needle and hold it in front of the work. Knit the next 3 sts from the left needle firmly, then knit the 3 sts from the cable needle. The cable leans to the left; holding in front always crosses left, holding in back crosses right. Working the first stitch after the cross snugly prevents a gap at the edge of the cable.
4. 4Knit the swatchRepeat rows 1-8 four times, for 32 rows and 4 cable crossings; the piece will measure about 12.5 cm. Cables pull the fabric in, so the same stitch count gives a piece about 2.5 cm narrower than stockinette; that's why a cable swatch must always be knitted in pattern.
5. 5What to make with itThis cable suits hats, scarves and sweater sleeves. For a scarf, cast on 36 sts (8 x 4 + 2 + 2 edge; about 16 cm) and work to 150 cm; you'll need about 300 g. For a hat in the round, skip the +2 and edge sts: cast on 96 sts (12 repeats) and work every round as a RS row, i.e. *p2, k6* on rounds 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 and 8, and *p2, C6F* on round 5; this gives about 44 cm around with comfortable stretch for an adult head.
6. 6FinishingAfter finishing a row 8, bind off in pattern on the RS; if the edge flares over the cables, you can k2tog once over each 6-st cable while binding off. Weave in the ends on the WS through the purl columns. Soak the swatch and straighten the cables gently while it dries; don't press with an iron, or the cables will lose their depth.